Royal Canin duo leads dramatic husky rescue for Crufts-winning breeder

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A husky belonging to a Crufts-winning breeder was recently rescued after running into four lanes of 70mph traffic thanks to the quick actions of two motorists – one was a member of the Royal Canin PRO Club and another was a Royal Canin merchandiser.

Naomi March, of Trailhunters Siberians, had been walking three of her huskies, but they managed to barge their way out of their crates. They ran five miles onto the A38 near Exeter.

Colin Wills, a breeder and a member of the Royal Canin PRO Club, pulled over as the dogs were running towards the M5. Meanwhile, Justin Lett, a Royal Canin merchandiser, also stopped to help. Fortunately, one of the huskies, 11-year old Mumble, turned back and approached them and Colin was able to put a lead on her.

Justin dialled 999 and a Highways Patrol was despatched to stop the traffic because the other two dogs were still running in the road.

In a remarkable coincidence, Rachael was also a member of the Royal Canin PRO Club.

Rachael Smith, of Trailhunters Siberians, who jointly owns the dogs with Naomi March said, “I am so grateful to Justin and Colin. It was a truly terrifying experience. If they hadn’t been there, I dread to think what would have happened. It was such a strange coincidence that all three of us had links to Royal Canin!”

Colin Wills, said, “My heart leapt when I saw the dogs running towards the motorway. I thought it was not going to be a happy ending. It was a very frightening experience. I think the husky was curious about my pug Ruby, who I had with me at the time, so the husky approached us and I was then able to get a lead on her.”

Justin said, “I was driving on the A38 and spotted three huskies in the road. I pulled over and met Colin who had already stopped to help. It was only later when we had got the dog to safety that I realised Colin and Rachael were both members of the Royal Canin PRO Club!”

The two other huskies – Bella and Mimi - were found safe and well five miles away and were reunited with Rachael and Naomi later that evening. Both Bella and Mimi have one Challenge Certificate each and Bella got Best of Breed at the Scottish Siberian Husky Club last summer and Mimi took a third in veteran at Crufts this year.